Every year we get bombarded with lists of destinations we should be visiting in the coming 12 months. ABTA (The Association of British Travel Agents) produce lists, we get hotlists from multiple tour operators, and every travel and lifestyle magazine is busy producing its own. So I thought why not hop on the bandwagon and produce my own list of 2024 destinations to watch?
My destination watchlist is purely based on the destinations I see popping up the most regularly, the deals and offers I get sent through, and the destinations I’m getting asked for most! It’s totally non-scientific, but this is my spin on the 2024 travel hot list. So which destinations have I picked? Grab a cuppa… this is a long one!
Albania
First on my list of 2024 destinations to watch is Albania. Tour operators are falling over themselves to start offering packages to the country, but why is Albania suddenly everywhere? It’s been widely touted as the next Greece. It probably helps that Albania is super close to some of the Greek Islands. It’s currently possible to take boat trips there. But Albania is definitely about to become a destination in its own right.
Albania is a safe holiday destination, with friendly locals and something for everyone. It boasts long white sand beaches and blue seas along the Adriatic and Ionian Coasts. This combines with beautiful mountains and countryside suitable for hiking. There’s also a fascinating history to discover for those who like immersing themselves in the culture and background of a country. Think UNESCO-listed towns and well-preserved ruins dating back to the Greek, Roman and Ottoman influences.
As Albania is so close to Greece, it shares a similar climate, beautiful beaches, similar cuisine and sights for everyone. The advantage over Greece is that it’s still relatively unknown as a holiday destination. Therefore Albania is currently much quieter, with fewer summer crowds, and the cost of living is much lower.
Egypt
Next on my list is Egypt. Egypt has always been a popular holiday destination, however has fallen away a little bit over recent years. It looks set to make a comeback in 2024 with many tour operators offering some fantastic deals to tempt holidaymakers back.
Many hotels in the Hurghada and Sharm regions have undergone huge renovations. They now offer luxury family holidays at a really reasonable price. Many have added waterparks and sports facilities to their hotels, as well as spas, a range of restaurants and bars for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re looking for a fly-and-flop holiday with guaranteed sunshine, this could well be the destination for you.
Of course, aside from the amazing beach resorts, Egypt has an absolutely fascinating history. I’ve always loved Ancient Egyptian history; I find the stories and the rituals so interesting. So visiting the pyramids has been on my wish list for a long time. If you want to explore the historical side of Egypt, it is possible to take day trips to the pyramids. Tours can be booked through your tour operator or your hotel. Just be aware that it’s a long trip from the resorts of Sharm, but worth it if ticking off one of the Seven Wonders of the World is on your bucket list.
Germany
Next on my list of 2024 destinations to watch is Germany. If you’re a football fan, then it probably hasn’t escaped your attention that Euro 2024 is going to be held in the country this summer. Even if you’re not a football fan, you can expect there to be much more focus on the country as a destination off the back of the tournament.
Germany has something for every kind of holidaymaker. Although it may be well-known for its Christmas markets, there are some amazing cities which are fantastic to visit year-round. I absolutely love Berlin and have been in winter and spring. But there are also cities such as Dusseldorf, Bremen (which I visited for work once), Frankfurt, Cologne and Munich. Most UK airports have at least one link to a German airport. The public transport system in the country is super reliable for visiting multiple cities in one trip.
If a city break isn’t your thing, don’t discount Germany. You can spend time relaxing in the Black Forest, hiking in the Alps, or visiting some of Bavaria’s lakes. And of course, history is a huge focus of Germany and such a massive topic too. Visit castles, palaces, and Berlin for much of the country’s political history and also the concentration camps of the Second World War.
The UK
With the financial situation being very up and down at the moment, and the cost of living remaining at its highest level, more people will be turning to holidaying in the UK during 2024. But it’s not only financial reasons, some people prefer to holiday closer to home for sustainability reasons. Travelling by public transport, and exploring more of their own country rather than jetting off abroad. And why not? The UK has some amazing holiday spots, and again, really does have a holiday to suit any needs.
There are tons of cities in the UK well worth a visit from the capitals of London, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast to Newcastle (sorry I had to get that in there!), Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow York, Bath and many more. Many of the UK cities have their own personality. They offer a range of attractions for all ages, football stadiums, museums, shopping, amazing food, nightlife and so much more. There are theatre breaks available and theme park breaks for those looking for more entertainment.
If you prefer something a little more rural, the UK has miles of stunning coastline, countryside, lakes, and rivers to cruise. The Northumberland Coast has beautiful beaches, gorgeous little towns and castles to explore. I’d love to do the Scotland 500 sometime. Some of the beaches and coves up there look like they’ve been plucked from the Caribbean in summer. Cornwall and Devon have stunning beaches and countryside to explore. Go Loch Ness hunting in Scotland. Hiking through the Lakes. Or relax and tuck yourself away in a country cottage or lodge somewhere. Holidaying in the UK can definitely be just as rewarding and relaxing as heading overseas. Although sorry, I can’t do anything about the weather!
Paris
Paris (and France in general) is another destination which is going to benefit from a big sporting event this summer when the Olympics rolls into town. The city will be absolutely swamped with athletes, family, friends, coaches, team members and tourists during the period of the Olympics. However, the publicity and hype around the event will last long after they’ve all left.
The Olympic legacy is a huge part of countries wanting to host the event. Visitors turn up long after the event to see the venues which have been purpose-built, and the sights they saw on TV. Although Paris needs very little introduction, many people who may not have thought of visiting the city before will be tempted to book a break there.
The ripple effect should then spread out further into France with more people considering it as a holiday destination. Maybe combine a few days in Paris with a break in one of the beach resorts such as La Rochelle (GCSE French coming back to me there). Or head to the South Coast for the glitz and glamour of Nice or Cannes. France also has the benefit of lots of Eurocamp-style family campsites. Here you can be based somewhere slightly more rural, with plenty of towns and cities nearby for exploring on a self-drive holiday. One to consider as one of the 2024 destinations to watch.
Mexico
Mexico was one of my most requested destinations in 2023 and is still one of the 2024 destinations to watch. It’s definitely one of the most popular long-haul destinations. It can be reached from many UK airports with direct and indirect flights offered by many airlines.
Cancun still remains one of the most popular holiday destinations. However other resorts are opening up more to the UK market such as Puerto Vallarta on the West Coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean. More people are also seeking out holidays to resorts such as Oaxaca and Cordoba for a different taste of Mexico. And Mexico City is also growing in popularity. If you are planning to head off somewhere a little out of the ordinary, make sure you check the official FCDO guidance before travelling. There are large parts of Mexico where travel is advised against.
If you’re looking for sun, sea and a relaxing holiday, then Cancun definitely remains the go-to area. Although many of the hotels in the area are all-inclusive, you definitely don’t need to feel tied to the hotel. It’s perfectly safe to head out into Cancun, sample the bars and restaurants along the beaches and do a spot of shopping. There are also trips available to sights such as Chichen Itza. Sail across to Isla Mujeres. Head out on boat cruises. Visit Tulum to find out more about the Mayans. Or visit one of the local theme parks.
Greece and the Greek Islands
The Greek Islands were on my 2023 list, and don’t look like they’ll be going anywhere soon! More islands are opening up to visitors every year and the demand for Greek holidays isn’t slowing down. For 2024, new islands such as Ios, Hydra and Naxos are opening up. But more tour operators are also offering trips to the mainland. Get away for a city break to Athens, stay on the Thessaloniki coast (or stay in Greece’s second city itself) or visit Parga on the North-West coast.
Whatever kind of holiday you’re looking for, The Greek Islands offer a holiday experience for you. If you want to find out more about some of the less well-known islands, the ultimate guide I wrote last year is still relevant for 2024! The main islands offer a variety of resorts and hotels to suit all family setups. With amazing food, stunning beaches and beautiful weather you can see why they remain a number one choice for holidaymakers.
If you want to see a different side of Greece, then definitely consider a trip to the mainland. More tour operators are now offering flights to Athens, Thessaloniki and Preveza. You can either fly straight into these destinations for a city break or head to the coast which is never far away. With the improved connectivity comes the opportunity to combine multiple Greek islands. Or stay on the mainland and then hop to an island stay in one trip. You can make the most of visiting a Greek city, and then spend a few days relaxing on an island. Or combine one of the more popular islands, with something a little more out of the way.
Turkey
Another repeat destination on my 2024 destinations to watch list. Turkey featured on my 2023 list, but just keeps growing in popularity it really does offer something for everyone. From the large, glitzy family resorts of the Lara Beach area, to the smaller more traditional towns and resorts around Izmir. More people are also choosing to fly into and stay in cities such as Antalya or even Istanbul. Some operators are offering a multi-centre city break and beach holiday option. This allows you to experience multiple sides of Turkey.
The most popular tourist areas for UK visitors are still the Antalya region and also Marmaris. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive getaway, with everything on site to cater for the whole family and keep everyone happy, then the Lara Beach and Alanya areas are for you. Think big hotels, multiple restaurants, spas, gyms, kid’s clubs, daytime and evening entertainment, waterparks, theme parks and golf courses.
If you’re looking for a holiday where you want to explore more of the local area, resorts such as Marmaris and Bodrum might be more to your taste. They do have all-inclusive resorts available for those who like everything in one place. But there are many more self-catering options available for those who want to eat out and sample local restaurants.
UAE
Dubai has been a popular destination for city breaks and beach holidays from the UK for quite a while now. Travellers go there for the amazing shopping, glitz and glamour, restaurants, towering hotels and of course the beaches and marina areas. But it’s also a great destination for family holidays. There are stunning beaches and all-inclusive hotels where everything is taken care of. And of course, the huge theme parks and waterparks to keep everyone entertained.
For 2024, holidays to Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are expanding massively with some gorgeous hotels being launched. You can stay in a retreat in the middle of the desert, fabulous family hotels with waterparks on the beach and combine a city and beach stay. Or spend a few days in Dubai before relaxing in Abu Dhabi. There’s also Yas Island which is a playground for families. It has Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World and beautiful beaches for when you need a bit of downtime.
While Dubai is glitzy and glamorous, Ras Al Khaimah focuses on waterfront holidays. There are over 40 miles of beachfront so you can guarantee you’ll always find a spot. The city is up and coming with malls, souks, authentic cafes and beach bars. You can also do excursions such as desert safaris similar to those available from Dubai. Abu Dhabi has grown just as quickly as Dubai but blends more of the old and new. So, while there are swanky malls and towering hotels, there is also more authentic Emirati culture with traditional mosques and fortresses. Why not take a traditional dhow boat cruise to soak in the coastal scenery?
Japan
The final place on my 2024 destinations to watch list is Japan. It seems to be everywhere at the moment with more tour operators launching packages, tours and cruises to take in as much of the country as possible. It’s set up well to take in multiple cities and sights in one trip, either by basing yourself in one city and using public transport to get around, or by taking part in a guided tour, or a self-guided tour of the country
Springtime in Japan brings the cherry blossom, so this is the peak season for travellers visiting Japan. Many hotels and cities are super busy but the cherry blossoms are absolutely worth seeing if you can make it out there at that time. Autumn is also a great time to visit as the colours in the cities and parks are just beautiful. If hiking and getting outdoors, is your kind of thing then June to August is a great time to visit the mountains of the Japanese Alps, although avoid this time if you’re planning to visit the cities as it is very hot and humid.
If you want to see as much of the country as possible, then taking part in a guided tour may be a good option. There are tours which focus on cities, culture and temples, food, so there’ll be something to match what you’re looking to get out of your time in Japan. These tend to sell out quickly though so make sure you book well in advance. Visiting Japan is also a great time to take in other countries in the area. Visitors to Japan will also often visit countries such as South Korea, Vietnam and Thailand for a longer adventure holiday.
2024 Destinations to Watch Round-Up
So, there you have it, my 2024 destinations to watch. Now obviously this is just my opinion based on nothing more than my own experience and what I’ve been reading in trade publications! There are of course many more fabulous places in the world to visit! Have you been to any of the destinations mentioned?
If this article has got you inspired to get your 2024 holiday booked (which is what I’m hoping to be honest!), get in touch and let’s get you something amazing booked!
